Memory has always been a prized characteristic of the human species. The ability to create bonds, remember complicated bits of information, and recognize the presence of danger by referring to past experiences has allowed societies to grow and build over countless generations. But memory is not infallible, and much like the rest of the human body, it is susceptible to decline and decay. As the body starts to go, so does the mind, and with it, the ability to fully utilize one’s cognitive capabilities. Getting older can be a stressful process not only for the person aging but also for their loved ones. No one wants to see their parent or guardian in a state of mental decline. That is why it is essential to understand how aging affects memory and the risks of dementia and be aware of the different types of memory care available today.
At Buckner Calder Woods, we hold ourselves to the highest standard when providing care to our residents. Our staff is open to any and all questions regarding our facility, curriculum, and memory care services.
When Should Dementia Patients Go Into Care?
Living with dementia means living with certain obstacles that can spontaneously appear. Patients should enter into care when these obstacles become insurmountable and begin to pose a genuine risk of harm, injury, and decline in quality of life. Symptoms of dementia include:
- Memory loss
- Personality changes
- Issues in communication
- Issues in concentration and problem-solving
- Becoming easily lost in familiar settings
- Confusion
- Depression
- Paranoia
- Inability to complete complex tasks
- Difficulty in planning and organization
The symptoms associated with the early stages of dementia are often so mild that individuals can still have a daily routine and care for themselves. However, when these symptoms begin to increase the risk of accident or injury and interfere with an individual’s ability to carry out simple tasks, dementia care should be sought out as soon as possible.
When Is It Time to Put Parents In Memory Care?
This question is a bit tougher to answer. There is a clear and set point for when someone should enter dementia care. As previously stated, that point is when dementia symptoms have progressed to where individuals cannot care for themselves less they risk accident or injury. While this fact remains unchanged, objectivity isn’t easy when making medical decisions for one’s parents.
Change is scary, and it is perfectly understandable for someone to think they can provide better care for their parent than a group of strangers in an unfamiliar setting. Unfortunately, dementia has certain complications that require education, training, and resources unavailable outside of a dementia care facility.
Examples of Dementia Care Services
There are many different forms that dementia care services can take. The service chosen will be determined by the patient’s physical, cognitive, and social requirements to maintain their health and quality of life at the highest level possible.
- Independent living is a form of dementia care designed for those with an active lifestyle who do not need a high level of assistance with everyday tasks but don’t want the responsibility of maintaining a home.
- Assisted living is a form of dementia care that provides more assistance to residents. Residents in assisted living require assistance with various daily tasks, including medication management, laundry services, and transportation.
- Memory care is designed specifically for those with memory impairment. These residents will have issues getting lost, remembering their daily routine, and remembering the location of everyday household objects.
- Long-term care and rehabilitation programs are also available to those who have suffered an injury that has decreased an individual’s ability to live independently.
The professionals at Buckner Calder Woods can help you determine the most suitable care services for your aging parent.
Learn More About Dementia Care Services at Buckner Calder Woods
There are many options when it comes to memory and dementia care services. When reviewing these services, one must always prioritize quality of life. This is because of how vulnerable quality of life is when living with dementia. Unfortunately, there is no cure for dementia. However, studies have shown that one of the best ways to slow its progress is to keep individuals with dementia active, social, and happy.
Buckner Calder Woods offers various dementia care services, including those mentioned above, and a vibrant, socially active community. For more information on dementia care services, visit our website, or contact us at 409.407.7636 to schedule an appointment today.